Exploring the Architectural Aesthetics of Nianbadu

Hidden Secret of Zhejiang, Fujian, and Jiangxi｜Jiangshan Nianbadu, a Millennium-Old “Living Ancient Town” Nestled Deep in the Mountains Tired of the hustle and bustle of commercialized ancient towns? Today, let me recommend a hidden gem for you—Jiangshan Nianbadu! It lies quietly at the junction of Zhejiang, Fujian, and Jiangxi provinces, untouched by overdevelopment, preserving only the simplicity and vitality shaped by time. It is truly a “Jiangnan secret deep in the mountains.” 📍 A Geographical Marvel at the Intersection of Three Provinces Located in Jiangshan City, Quzhou, Zhejiang, it sits exactly at the meeting point of Zhejiang, Fujian, and Jiangxi provinces—a true “one foot in three provinces.” Standing here, you can almost hear the dialects of all three provinces at once, and every snapshot you take is filled with a unique cross-provincial vibe. 📜 A Legend Born from a Millennium-Old Ancient Road Tracing back history, the rise of this place is inseparable from the Huang Chao Rebellion. In 878 AD, the rebel army opened the Xianxia Ancient Road at Xianxia Ridge to attack Fujian, making this an important post station on the ancient route. During the Northern Song Dynasty, 44 “du” (administrative units) were established in southern Zhejiang. Since this town ranked twenty-eight, the name “Nianbadu” has been passed down for a thousand years. 🏯 One Ancient Town, Half a History of Architecture Nianbadu’s architecture is known as a “museum of the fusion of three provincial styles”—the horse-head walls of Huizhou style rise high, elements of Fujian’s tulou are subtly embedded, and Jiangxi’s carved wooden windows are exquisite and delicate. Every old house hides a cross-border aesthetic code. Don’t miss Wenchang Palace, the only village-level two-courtyard palace in the country, with vibrant murals inside that tell stories of the past with every brushstroke; also visit the former residence of Jiang Yuhong, featuring 108 flower window designs, each different, showcasing the ingenuity and romance of ancient people. 👫 A “Cultural Enclave” of 142 Surnames and 13 Dialects The most amazing thing is that this small ancient town is home to 142 surnames and 13 dialects, earning it the titles of “China’s Kingdom of Dialects” and “Jiangnan Cultural Enclave.” Step into the Dialect and Surname Museum to listen to the obscure yet fascinating dialects and learn about the family stories of different surnames, as if traveling back to a time of multicultural fusion. 🍜 A Feast for Carbohydrate Lovers When you come to Nianbadu, don’t miss these authentic delicacies! The glutinous copper gong cake is a must-try—each bite is filled with the fragrance of osmanthus and sesame, sweet but not greasy; the swallow-skin wontons have skins as thin as cicada wings, wrapping tender meat filling, fresh and addictive; and Longxingzhai’s Fengxi fish, cooked with ancient town well water, preserves the fish’s original freshness—once you try it, you won’t forget it. 🚗 Super Convenient Transportation Guide Public Transport: Take the high-speed train to Jiangshan Station, then transfer to the direct shuttle to the scenic area. You can reach the ancient town within an hour while enjoying mountain views along the way. Self-Driving: Navigate directly to “Nianbadu Visitor Center,” with smooth roads and convenient parking at the scenic spot. 🎫 Special Offer Alert: Free Admission During Cultural and Tourism Events! Highlight! Tickets are free during cultural and tourism events! You can unlock all the charm of this millennium-old ancient town without spending a penny, offering unbeatable value! 📸 100% Photo-Worthy Spots • Fengxi Old Street: The bluestone pavement is polished smooth by time, with old shops on both sides hanging red lanterns. Wearing a Hanfu and strolling here, every shot looks like a classical masterpiece. • Beibaomen Gate: For a panoramic view of the ancient town, come to Beibaomen! From here, you can see the entire town with its blue tiles and white walls. Early morning or evening light is best, creating an immersive atmosphere. 🌟 Slow Down and Feel the Warmth of Time No crowded crowds, no hawking shops—Nianbadu retains its most authentic appearance. Here, you can sit in an old teahouse sipping clear tea, watching sunlight filter through wooden windows onto the bluestone pavement; or stroll along Fengxi Creek, listening to the babbling water and occasional dialect conversations. Time here seems to slow down, allowing you to find inner peace in the rustic atmosphere. If you want to escape the fast pace of big cities, why not take a walk in Nianbadu and experience the unique charm of this millennium-old ancient town, letting your soul be healed by the green mountains and clear waters~